An interesting new study published by the Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Review has revealed that there are apparent similarities between the effect of alcohol and that of the so-called 'love hormone' - oxytocin.

Scientists from the University of Birmingham, brought together existing research on the effects of oxytocin and alcohol and were taken aback by the unbelievable similarities between the two compounds. In the present study, the hormone was applied on the subjects through a spray. The researchers found that the individuals were in seventh heaven, completely relieved of all stresses. It fact, the hormone acted like a happiness-inducing neurochemical. Similar results were observed when alcohol was administered to the subjects.

"These neural circuits control how we perceive stress or anxiety, especially in social situations such as interviews, or perhaps even plucking up the courage to ask somebody on a date", said Dr Ian Mitchell, from the School of Psychology at Birmingham University.

Thus, the researchers concluded that oxytocin had the same effects on the brain as alcohol, therefore, people in love behave similarly to drunk individuals. However, scientists confirmed that though the two compounds cause common reactions, they appear to target different receptors within the brain.

Neuropeptide hormone oxytocin, sometimes also referred to as the 'bonding hormone', is produced in the hypothalamus and has been originally linked to maternal bonding and childbirth. However, recent studies have suggested that the hormone can impact social interactions and potential romantic partners.

As per the present findings, the effects of oxytocin, including, increased sociability and removal of social inhibitors such as fear, anxiety and stress, mirror the effects some people experience when drunk.

However, the study lists the negatives too. While both oxytocin and alcohol can make those under the influence more generous, altruistic and empathetic, it can also make us over-confident, envious, paranoid and aggressive. Not only can they make one more vulnerable, but also reckless when making decisions.